[. . . ] Steam can loosen weak, porous or poorly bonded plaster - which also loosens readily if cracked, holed or if the steam plate is held in one position for too long after the paper is soaked. A hollow sound indicates that you should proceed only with extreme care - stopping immediately if you hear a cracking sound or plaster starts to break loose. The steam stripper is safe for drywall/plaster board surfaces but whatever the material, it is always wise to check a small area before starting work properly. PROTECT YOUR HOME The heat generated by the boiler unit can mark carpets, soft furnishings, table tops, cabinets etc. To prevent this we recommend placing the unit on a wooden board, tray or other barrier - making sure it will not slip off one side or tilt during use. [. . . ] Working this way should enable continuous paper removal although it may be necessary to steam for longer periods with some papers, or if not completely removed first time. If unit requires refilling, unplug cord and allow to cool for at least 2 minutes before removing filler cap - Beware of steam. When finished, allow to cool completely and empty unit. SAFETY CUT-OUT A safety cut-out is fitted to prevent overheating the element if the water boils low. Wait for 2 minutes before removing filler cap then re-fill with water. The cut-out will self reset and steam be produced again within 5-15 minutes. The cut-out will not protect the element if a part filled unit is tilted during use in a way which enables part of the element to be out of the water for longer than 15-20 seconds. OTHER USES Artex® Normally Artex® can be removed using the same method as for wallpaper although the steaming time will be longer. CAUTION: Some textured finishes may contain asbestos which may be hazardous to health and which are subject to licensing controls operated by the HSE (Health & Safety Executive). Vinyl Floor Tiles Vinyl floor tiles can also be removed if the plate is left long enough for the heat to penetrate the adhesive. Once the adhesive is hot it softens and the tile can be peeled from the floor. Sterilising Soil To sterilise soil in seed trays or greenhouses rake the soil to obtain a fine surface. Leave the steam plate on each section, for 2 to 2. 5 minutes which should ensure that the steam has penetrated through the surface. Killing Weeds Steam will kill weeds on paths and patios without the use of chemicals. You will need to steam the weeds for 1 to 1. 5 minutes in order to kill them. Killing weeds TROUBLE SHOOTING Unit Fails to Boil The unit has probably not been left for long enough to cool - refer to section on safety cut-out. If using an extension lead check that it is rated at a minimum of 10 amps and it is fully unwound. Unit Leaks Steam from Pressure Relief Valve The pressure relief valve is a special low pressure valve and cannot be replaced by any other valve. If steam is leaking from the valve, the most likely cause is a blockage in the hose. Allow the hose to cool then remove the hose and check for any blockage. THIS IS OPERATING FOR YOUR PROTECTION. DESCALING To maintain peak performance of the unit, particularly in areas of hard water, it may be necessary to descale the element in the unit. [. . . ] The wire which is coloured blue must be connected to the terminal which is marked with the letter N or coloured black. The wire which is coloured brown must be connected to the terminal which is marked with the letter L or coloured red. GUARANTEE This product is guaranteed for a period of 24 months against faulty materials and workmanship. Whilst every possible care is taken by the manufacturer to ensure that our products leave the factory in good working order, we canot under any circumstances accept liability for problems or damage caused by their subsequent use. It is the responsibilty of the user to ensure that surfaces to be cleaned or stripped are suitable for steam. [. . . ]